Consumers are increasingly self-reporting rent payments, TransUnion says

"The regulatory developments we've seen in this space are very encouraging, said Maitri Johnson, SVP and head of TransUnion's tenant and employment screening business. The vast majority of renters reliably make on-time payments and they deserve to leverage that proven responsibility toward home ownership and other financial opportunities. The analysis found property manager participation in rent reporting fell to 44% in 2025, down from 48% in 2024 the first decline after rising from 27% in 2022."

"Rent payment reporting is well documented as a means to improving credit scores and financial inclusion, so I'm happy to see that more consumers are empowered to participate, said Johnson. We hope the new FHFA policy will help increase the number of consumers opting in for rent payment reporting. Rent payment reporting attracts responsible renters, with 57% more likely to choose managers who report payments and 80% more likely to pay on time."

Regulatory changes allow rent payment history to be considered in mortgage applications, potentially enabling more first-time homebuyers to qualify. Property manager participation in rent reporting fell to 44% in 2025 from 48% in 2024 after rising from 27% in 2022, while consumer self-reporting through third-party furnishers appears to be increasing. Rent payment reporting is linked to improved credit scores and greater financial inclusion and attracts responsible renters, who are more likely to choose reporting managers and pay on time. State mandates in California and Colorado have boosted adoption. Gen Z participation fell from 26% to 18% but remains relatively active and may gain earlier homeownership opportunities.

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